Dunes on the Edge of the Atlantic: Characterising Geomorphology, Vegetation and Plant Functional Traits in the Northwest of Ireland

Coastal dunes are uniquely dynamic environments continuously shaped by a complex network of physical and biotic factors. Due to its location, the northwest of Ireland presents a challenging coastline characterised by high waves and wind energy. Even though dune systems in this area are frequently subject to habitat loss and erosion processes, comprehensive ecological studies are scarce. With the primary objective of investigating species composition and morphometric variability, we selected 13 dune sites and collected 409 vegetation plots and multiple cross-shore profiles. We implemented multivariate analyses to detect the main patterns in vegetation and geomorphology, and functional traits (TRY database) to evaluate plant strategies along the natural gradient. We observed high geomorphological heterogeneity across the beach–dune area. The PCA results were linked to the width of the natural system and to erosion or progradation trend. Different habitats of conservation interest were identified, and the environmental gradient proved to be the primary influence on species composition. In addition, different patterns in functional traits were detected along the zonation in response to the intensity of abiotic factors. The application of a multidisciplinary approach was crucial in unravelling the complexity of these environments and highlighting the need for context-specific conservation strategies.